Grand Hotel

Front Office Intern

May - August 2021 • Mackinac Island, MI

What I liked

I got to live on Mackinac Island for a very cheap price in the employee housing. I was able to gain experience in the field of hospitality. I was able to form connections with higher management within the hotel. I was valued and given hours, but also paid well. It was very hands-on and I was able to try multiple different roles.

What I wish was different

I wish that I had been given more exposure to different areas. Although the internship was supposed to be rotational, due to staffing issues (that many businesses are experiencing) I was stuck mostly doing front desk work and not being able to rotate to the different areas as often.

Advice

Have so much fun! Make friends and be social because the island can be a lot of fun for employees. Additionally, enjoy Clover if she is still there. She is the most amazing human being I have ever met, and been working front desk for 14 years! She is definitely a big big help when you're learning what to do there.

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Photographer

May - September 2017 • Mackinac Island, MI

What I liked

The broad range of photo opportunities and responsibilities offered throughout the season.

What I wish was different

Access to more updated hardware and editing software.

Advice

This position will greatly improve your skills in photography and communication, as well as expand your network.

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Harpist

July 2018 • Mackinac Island, MI

What I liked

I loved getting to perform everyday and having a short amount of time to expand my repotiore

What I wish was different

My commute from Grand Hotel housing

Advice

Always be on your toes and ready to jump at any opportunity

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Photographer

May 2017 • Mackinac Island, MI

What I liked

Countless opportunities to practice and improve my photographic skillset, taking initiative on projects and editing my own work, and numerous possibilities for additional side work such as assisting with weddings around the island.

What I wish was different

Commision based pay, but the way in which the department operates makes commission unfeasible.

Advice

You do not need to be a professional photographer to be able to do this job, but you should be very passionate about photography if you are interested in photography. This position will test your ability to communicate with the public as well as improve upon your abilities as a photographer. It is a great portfolio and resume builder for up and coming photographers.

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